Our ServicesEmbarking on a new journey in a foreign land is undeniably thrilling, yet the adventure comes with potential risks, particularly for newcomers. Unfortunately, many scams target people unfamiliar with their surroundings and lacking the knowledge to protect themselves. Ranging from deceitful employment schemes to counterfeit immigration services, these fraudulent activities can have severe repercussions on the lives of unsuspecting victims.
In this blog post, we will delve into some of the prevalent scams that prey upon newcomers in Canada, offering insights into safeguarding yourself from these threats. By arming yourself with awareness and insights, you can effectively avoid falling victim to these devious ploys. We will also provide guidance on the necessary steps to take if you find yourself ensnared by such a scam, enabling you to reclaim your funds and pursue legal action if required.
Impersonation of Government Officials
One pervasive scam involves individuals posing as representatives of the Government of Canada, contacting unsuspecting victims and resorting to intimidation tactics to force them into paying fake fees or fines for alleged transgressions.
The imposters frequently resort to extreme measures, threatening the victims’ families and homes. It is imperative to know that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) never initiates contact via phone to solicit fees or fines. Authentic IRCC communication refrains from aggressiveness, threats of arrest or deportation, harm to family members, or property damage.
To shield yourself from these nasty schemes, being attentive to warning signs is paramount. If you receive a suspicious call about your immigration status, maintain composure and refrain from divulging personal or financial information. It is crucial to remember that IRCC will never request such information over the phone. Furthermore, IRCC does not endorse hastened payments or transactions through avenues like prepaid credit cards, Western Union, MoneyGram, gift cards, or similar services. If you encounter such a scam call, immediately report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Navigating Suspicious Immigration Calls
When you receive a suspicious immigration call, knowing how to respond to protect yourself is important. Trust your instincts and if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. End the call immediately and contact the official Call Centre to verify whether the call is legitimate. Government agencies are happy to answer questions and provide verification, so it’s recommended that you seek confirmation.
If you suspect a call is a fraudulent attempt, it is important to make a Canadian fraud report promptly to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. This will help authorities locate and stop the scammers, as well as prevent others from falling victim to the same scheme. Additionally, if you have suffered financial loss due to a scam, it is advisable to notify local law enforcement right away. They can assist you in filing a report and potentially recovering your funds. It is important to remember that scammers can manipulate Caller ID to appear authentic, so it is essential to be cautious and verify any personal or financial information before sharing it.
Recognizing Fraudulent Emails
When you move to a new country, you may receive unsolicited emails. However, as a newcomer to Canada, it’s important to be cautious when it comes to emails that request personal information or financial investments. These types of emails should be deleted immediately. Legitimate investors do not typically send bulk emails to unknown recipients, so it’s important to exercise caution. If you receive an email from an unfamiliar sender requesting personal information, do not comply. Be extremely careful when clicking on links or sharing personal information. If you have doubts about the authenticity of an email, verify the sender’s identity before taking any action.
Guarding Against Bogus Computer Virus Alerts
People relocating to Canada must acquaint themselves with fraud targeting newcomers. One involves fake tech support claiming your computer has a virus. They may try to access your personal information without your consent. Legitimate support won’t contact you unsolicited or ask for access without your permission. Be cautious of unsolicited messages claiming to be tech support.
To prevent falling victim to a scam, avoid giving computer access to unknown individuals. If your computer’s virus suspicion arises, consult a professional repair service or acquire reputable antivirus software from credible vendors. This ensures professional handling of your computer and adequate mitigation of potential threats.
Navigating Fake Prize Notifications
Be cautious if you receive a call or text claiming you’ve won a prize, especially if you have no recollection of entering any contests. This is a common scam aimed at newcomers in Canada who may not be familiar with local contests and giveaways. If an unknown individual requests you to complete a personal information form, refrain from responding to them.
Erase the text without hesitation to avert identity theft or fraud. Refrain from responding to texts instructing you to reply with “STOP” or “NO,” as such responses validate active numbers and invite additional spam messages. Instead, forward the text to 7726 (SPAM on most keypads) to alert your service provider and prevent future texts from that number. If you believe the text’s authenticity, validate the website link before clicking to ensure secure navigation to the correct site. Vigilance is your ally against these counterfeit prize enticements, preserving your personal data.
Seeking Guidance from Immigrationway
If you have any concerns about immigration scams or need guidance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Immigrationway. Our team of experts is always available to provide essential guidance for your safety. We can assist you with any queries related to suspicious calls, emails, or potential scams. We are here to serve as your trusted resource through the complex world of Canadian immigration. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priority.
